Skyline Technologies Joins Privacy Shield Program

Mar 12, 2019

Adherence to 23 Privacy Principles Ensures GDPR-Compliance

GREEN BAY – On February 26th, Skyline Technologies, Inc. was formally recognized as a participant in the EU-U.S. and Swiss-U.S. Privacy Shield Frameworks that provide companies on both sides of the Atlantic with a mechanism to comply with data protection requirements when transferring personal data.

To join the program, organizations agree to adhere to 23 principles regarding privacy. Once an organization develops the ability to adhere to those principles, they do an internal audit to self-certify that they can keep personal data private. Any participating organization that violates these principles is subject to penalties by the United States government.

“We felt it was in the best interest of our clients to do this,” said Brian Morgan, Directory of Security for Skyline Technologies. “We’re partners with our clients. As a partner, we have a responsibility to take care of the data our clients entrust to us.”

In 2013, Skyline Technologies began developing their Information Security Program in response to clients’ request for improved security in their supply chain. Since then, the market has grown more concerned with security because of the increasing number of headlines highlighting businesses that have been attacked through their supply chain.

As privacy laws are passed, like the European Union’s General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), the only way companies can ensure compliance is to build protection into a contract – especially with their supply chain partners, who are often seen as the weakest link.

“Companies who want to ensure their data is secure require that their supply chain partners possess the ability to protect data,” said Morgan. “They are looking for a partner that can reduce their risk. Over time, this is going to be a standard part of doing business.”

Morgan outlined six areas of focus that are important in Skyline Technologies’ protection of client data: executive visibility into security, frequent and thorough employee training, upfront identification and classification of the client data being entrusted, assessing and mitigating the risk associated with handling that data, monitoring delivery, and having a solid incident response program.

Through their Information Security Program and participation in the Security Shield Frameworks, Skyline Technologies can do business with clients who are required to comply with GDPR because they can protect and secure a company’s data and ensure its privacy.

“It’s further evidence that we take privacy and security seriously and are taking the appropriate steps to protect our clients’ peace of mind,” said Morgan.

Skyline Technologies is a technology consulting and professional services organization with offices in Appleton, Green Bay, and Milwaukee. Since 1992, Skyline has been helping organizations win with technology by delivering improved business performance through transformative services and consulting. Follow Skyline Technologies on Twitter and LinkedIn.